There was a point in the season when it seemed that the Dallas Cowboys had a legitimate chance to make the playoffs. That's why this team might not be as far behind as some feel, despite the disappointing ending to the 2025 season.
It'll be all about making the necessary moves to help this team get back to the top of the division. And while there's only so much money to go around in free agency, we expect these cut and trade candidates, and even one impending free agent, to stay in Arlington for a little longer.
3 Cowboys Players Who Aren't Going Anywhere In 2026
1. Jaydon Blue
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer never sounded too high on Jaydon Blue. He called him out multiple times and didn't seem to be impressed by his work ethic, and he was a healthy scratch in all but five games as a rookie.
Then again, this team will almost assuredly lose one of, if not both, of Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders in free agency, and Blue is making pennies on his rookie deal. Even if Blue is not a starter, this team needs to give him a chance to earn his spot and get on the field.
The former Texas Longhorns standout needs to work on his ball-security issues, but the big-play potential has always been there. Hopefully, his rocky rookie season was a big learning experience, and he'll have a huge chip on his shoulder next season.
2. Jadeveon Clowney
Jadeveon Clowney was a late addition, but he was one of the few impactful pass rushers on the team. Even at his age, he's probably the team's best bet at EDGE alongside Donovan Ezeiruaku, and he's already expressed a desire to return next season.
Clowney isn't getting any younger, and he never truly lived up to the expectations as a former No. 1 pick. Nevertheless, he's a proven commodity with a knack for getting to the opposing quarterback, and he's not going to be an expensive pickup.
The fact that multiple teams turned their backs on him last season makes it feel like he's going to be available again in the offseason, and with their current Defensive End room, the Cowboys can't afford to let him walk away.
3. Logan Wilson
While Logan Wilson didn't make much of an impact late in the season and didn't even play in Week 17, he's still a serviceable player who might be a solid rotation piece next season. Whoever the Cowboys hire to take the reins of the defense will most likely want a proven veteran there just in case.
The Cowboys will probably draft a linebacker, and young guys like DeMarvion Overshown should be given a longer leash now that he's fully healthy. That being said, Jerry Jones was high on Logan Wilson, and he's ultimately the one making the shots.
The offense performed just fine, but the defense clearly needs a major overhaul. Still, they don't have that much flexibility, so even though cutting him would free up $6.5 million in cap space, they might be better off holding onto him.